Robust synchronization and detection mechanisms for OFDM WLAN systems

ABSTRACT

A synchronization module for an orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing (OFDM) receiver system including a signal combination module that generates N combination signals that correspond to N received signals by performing at least one of weighted combining and selection and equal-gain-combining (EGC) on the N signals. A weighted signal generator module generates N weighted signals based on the N combination signals. N is an integer greater than one.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/773,591, filed on Feb. 15, 2006, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/776,102, filed on Feb. 23, 2006. The disclosures of the above applications are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

FIELD

The present disclosure relates to synchronization and detection mechanisms for orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing (OFDM) receivers in wireless local area network (WLAN) systems.

BACKGROUND

In OFDM WLAN systems, such as those specified by IEEE. Standards 802.11a, 802.11g, 802.11n, and 802.16, performance suffers from the presence of a carrier frequency offset. This is due to the fact that the OFDM subcarriers are spaced closely in frequency. Imperfect frequency synchronization causes a loss in subcarrier orthogonality which severely degrades performance.

Referring now to FIG. 1, an OFDM receiver system 10 is shown. Antennas 12-1, 12-2, . . . , and 12-n (referred to collectively as antennas 12) receive signals and pass the signals through low pass filters 14-1, 14-2, . . . , and 14-n (referred to collectively as low pass filters 14). The low pass filters 14 block harmonic emissions which might cause interference with other communications. After being passed through the low pass filters 14, the signals are sent to autocorrelators 16-1, 16-2, . . . , and 16-n (referred to collectively as autocorrelators 16). The autocorrelators 16 find repeating patterns in a signal, such as determining the presence of a periodic signal which has been buried under noise. The signals from the autocorrelators 16 are then combined and sent to a demodulator 18. The demodulator 18 is used to recover the information content from the carrier waves of the signals.

SUMMARY

A synchronization module for an orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing (OFDM) receiver system includes a signal combination module that generates N combination signals that correspond to N received signals by performing at least one of weighted combining and selection and equal-gain-combining (EGC) on the N signals. A weighted signal generator module generates N weighted signals based on the N combination signals. N is an integer greater than one.

In other features of the invention, an OFDM receiver system includes the synchronization module and further includes N receive antennas that receive the N received signals. N low pass filters receive the N received signals and generate N filtered signals. N autocorrelators receive the N filtered signals and generate N autocorrelated signals. A summing module sums the N weighted signals to form a combined weighted signal.

In other features of the invention, an independent assessment module receives the combined weighted signal and generates an effective Clear Channel Assessment (CCA) signal based on at least the combined weighted signal. An Effective Clear Channel Assessment module (ECCA) receives the effective CCA signal and executes an action based on an effective state of the OFDM receiver system. N signal strength modules receive the N filtered signals and generate N strength signals.

In other features of the invention, the signal combination module further includes a weighted combining module that receives the N strength signals and generates a first set of N combined signals by weighing the N strength signals in relation to a maximum power value A selection and equal gain combining (EGC) module receives the N strength signals and generates a second set of N combined signals by disabling at least one of the N receive antennas in deep fade, and equal-gain-combining one or more of the N receive antennas that remain enabled. A control module receives the first set of N combined signals and the second set of N combined signals and generates the N combination signals using at least one of the first N combined signals and the second N combined signals.

In other features of the invention, the independent assessment module further includes at least one Clear Channel Assessment (CCA) module that receives the combined weighted signal and generates the effective CCA signal. The OFDM receiver system is compliant with at least one of Institute of Electrical Engineers (IEEE) Standards 802.11a, 802.11g, and 802.11n.

A synchronization module for an orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing (OFDM) receiver system includes signal combination means for generating N combination signals that correspond to N received signals by performing at least one of weighted combining and selection and equal-gain-combining (EGC) on the N signals and weighted signal generator means for generating N weighted signals based on the N combination signals. N is an integer greater than one.

In other features of the invention, an OFDM receiver system includes the synchronization module and further includes N receive antennas that receive the N received signals. The OFDM receiver system further includes N low pass filter means for receiving the N received signals and generating N filtered signals. The OFDM receiver system further includes N autocorrelator means for receiving the N filtered signals and generating N autocorrelated signals. The OFDM receiver system further includes summing means for summing the N weighted signals to form a combined weighted signal.

In other features of the invention, the OFDM receiver system further includes independent assessment means for receiving the combined weighted signal and generating an effective Clear Channel Assessment (CCA) signal based on at least the combined weighted signal. The OFDM receiver system further includes Effective Clear Channel Assessment (ECCA) means for receiving the effective CCA signal and executing an action based on an effective state of the OFDM receiver system. The synchronization module further includes N signal strength means for receiving the N filtered signals and generating N strength signals.

In other features of the invention, the signal combination means further includes weighted combining means for receiving the N strength signals and generating a first set of N combined signals by weighing the N strength signals in relation to a maximum power value, selection and equal gain combining (EGC) means for receiving the N strength signals and generating a second set of N combined signals by disabling at least one of the N receive antennas in deep fade, and equal-gain-combining one or more of the N receive antennas that remain enabled, and control means for receiving the first set of N combined signals and the second set of N combined signals and generating the N combination signals using at least one of the first N combined signals and the second N combined signals.

In other features of the invention, the independent assessment means further includes at least one Clear Channel Assessment (CCA) means for receiving the combined weighted signal and generating the effective CCA signal. The OFDM receiver system is compliant with at least one of Institute of Electrical Engineers (IEEE) Standards 802.11a, 802.11g, and 802.11n.

A synchronization method for an orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing (OFDM) receiver system includes generating N combination signals that correspond to N received signals by performing at least one of weighted combining and selection and equal-gain-combining (EGC) on the N signals, and generating N weighted signals based on the N combination signals. N is an integer greater than one.

In other features of the invention, the synchronization method further includes receiving the N received signals at N receive antennas, receiving the N received signals at N low pass filters, and generating N filtered signals. The synchronization method further includes receiving the N filtered signals at N autocorrelators and generating N autocorrelated signals. The synchronization method further includes summing the N weighted signals to form a combined weighted signal. The synchronization method further includes receiving the combined weighted signal and generating an effective Clear Channel Assessment (CCA) signal based on at least the combined weighted signal. The synchronization method further includes receiving the effective CCA signal at an Effective Clear Channel Assessment module (ECCA). The synchronization method further includes generating N strength signals based on the N filtered signals.

In other features of the invention, the synchronization method further includes receiving the N strength signals, generating a first set of N combined signals by weighing the N strength signals in relation to a maximum power value, generating a second set of N combined signals by disabling at least one of the N receive antennas in deep fade and equal-gain-combining one or more of the N receive antennas that remain enabled, receiving the first set of N combined signals and the second set of N combined signals, and generating the N combination signals using at least one of the first N combined signals and the second N combined signals. The synchronization method further includes receiving the combined weighted signal at a Clear Channel Assessment (CCA) module and generating the effective CCA signal at the CCA module.

A computer program stored for use by a processor for operating an orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing (OFDM) receiver system includes generating N combination signals that correspond to N received signals by performing at least one of weighted combining and selection and equal-gain-combining (EGC) on the N signals, and generating N weighted signals based on the N combination signals. N is an integer greater than one.

In other features of the invention, the computer program further includes generating N filtered signals. The computer program further includes receiving the N filtered signals and generating N autocorrelated signals. The computer program further includes summing the N weighted signals to form a combined weighted signal. The computer program further includes receiving the combined weighted signal and generating an effective Clear Channel Assessment (CCA) signal based on at least the combined weighted signal. The computer program further includes receiving the effective CCA signal at an Effective Clear Channel Assessment module (ECCA). The computer program further includes generating N strength signals based on the N filtered signals.

In other features of the invention, the computer program further includes receiving the N strength signals, generating a first set of N combined signals by weighing the N strength signals in relation to a maximum power value, generating a second set of N combined signals, receiving the first set of N combined signals and the second set of N combined signals, and generating the N combination signals using at least one of the first N combined signals and the second N combined signals. The computer program further includes receiving the combined weighted signal at a Clear Channel Assessment (CCA) module and generating the effective CCA signal at the CCA module.

Further areas of applicability of the present disclosure will become apparent from the detailed description provided hereinafter. It should be understood that the detailed description and specific examples, while indicating the preferred embodiment of the disclosure, are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present disclosure will become more fully understood from the detailed description and the accompanying drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a functional block diagram of an OFDM receiver system.

FIG. 2A is a functional block diagram of an OFDM receiver system incorporating a synchronization module and a first embodiment of an independent assessment module.

FIG. 2B is a functional block diagram of an OFDM receiver system incorporating a synchronization module and a second embodiment of an independent assessment module.

FIG. 3A is a functional block diagram of the synchronization module incorporating signal strength modules, a signal combination module, and a weighted signal generator module.

FIG. 3B is a functional block diagram of the synchronization module according to one aspect of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a functional block diagram of a signal strength module.

FIG. 5A is a functional block diagram of the signal combination module according to one aspect of the present invention.

FIG. 5B is a functional block diagram of the signal combination module according to one aspect of the present invention.

FIG. 5C is a functional block diagram of the signal combination module according to one aspect of the present invention.

FIG. 6A is a functional diagram of the independent assessment module incorporating multiple clear channel assessment modules.

FIG. 6B is a functional diagram of the independent assessment module incorporating a single clear channel assessment module;

FIG. 7 is a functional block diagram of a clear channel assessment module.

FIG. 8 is a plot illustrating the delay between automatic gain control (AGC) unlock and antenna selection.

FIG. 9 is a flow chart illustrating the antenna selection process.

FIG. 10A is a functional block diagram of a high definition television;

FIG. 10B is a functional block diagram of a vehicle control system;

FIG. 10C is a functional block diagram of a cellular phone;

FIG. 10D is a functional block diagram of a set top box; and

FIG. 10E is a functional block diagram of a media player.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following description is merely exemplary in nature and is in no way intended to limit the disclosure, its application, or uses. For purposes of clarity, the same reference numbers will be used in the drawings to identify similar elements. As used herein, the term module, circuit and/or device refers to an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), an electronic circuit, a processor (shared, dedicated, or group) and memory that execute one or more software or firmware programs, a combinational logic circuit, and/or other suitable components that provide the described functionality. As used herein, the phrase at least one of A, B, and C should be construed to mean a logical (A or B or C), using a non-exclusive logical or. It should be understood that steps within a method may be executed in different order without altering the principles of the present disclosure. While embodiments of the present invention are discussed in terms of OFDM WLAN signals such as those specified by IEEE Standards 802.11a, 802.11g, 802.11n, and 802.16, other embodiments employ other signals, including point-to-point signals as well as network signals.

Referring now to FIG. 2A, an OFDM receiver system 20 incorporating a synchronization module 22 and an independent assessment module 24 (e.g. a carrier sense detect module) is shown. Receiver antennas 26-1, 26-2, . . . , and 26-n (referred to collectively as receive antennas 26) receive signals and pass those signals through low pass filters 28-1, 28-2, . . . , and 28-n (referred to collectively as low pass filters 28). The low pass filters 28 block harmonic emissions which might cause interference with other communications. After being passed through the low pass filters 28, the filtered signals F₁, F₂, and F_(n) are sent to autocorrelators 30-1, 30-2, . . . , and 30-n (referred to collectively as autocorrelators 30) and to the synchronization module 22. The autocorrelators 30 find repeating patterns in a signal. For example, the autocorrelators 30 determine the presence of a periodic signal that has been buried under noise. The autocorrelators 30 then send autocorrelated signals A₁, A₂, . . . , and A_(n) to the synchronization module 22 and to the independent assessment module 24.

The synchronization module 22 measures the strength of the signals and combines the signals. The synchronization module 22 outputs weighted autocorrelated signals W₁, W₂, . . . , and W_(n). The weighted signals W₁, W₂, and W_(n) are summed using a summing module 32 to form a combined weighted signal W_(C). The combined weighted signal W_(C) is then sent to the independent assessment module 24. The independent assessment module 24 demodulates the autocorrelated signals A₁, A₂, . . . , and A_(n) and the combined weighted signal W_(C). The independent assessment module 24 then outputs an effective signal CCA_(EFF). The effective signal CCA_(EFF) is sent to an effective clear channel assessment module 34. The effective clear channel assessment module 34 then determines what action the system is to take based on the effective signal CCA_(EFF).

Referring now to FIG. 2B, the independent assessment module 24 receives the combined weighted signal W_(C) from the summing module 32. In the present implementation, the independent assessment module 24 does not receive the autocorrelated signals A₁, A₂, . . . , and A_(n) from the autocorrelators 30. The independent assessment module 24 demodulates the combined weighted signal W_(C) and outputs the effective signal CCA_(EFF) accordingly. The effective signal CCA_(EFF) is sent to the effective clear channel assessment module 34. In other words, in the present implementation, the independent assessment module determines the effective signal CCA_(EFF) based only on the combined weighted signal W_(C).

Referring now to FIG. 3A, a synchronization module 22 incorporating signal strength modules 36-1, 36-2, . . . , and 36-n (referred to collectively as signal strength modules 36), a signal combination module 38, and a weighted signal generator module 40 is shown. Filtered signals F₁, F₂, . . . , and F_(n) are passed through the signal strength modules 36. The signal strength modules 36 measure the strength of each signal and output strength signals S₁, S₂, . . . , and S_(n). The strength signals S₁, S₂, . . . , and S_(n) are sent to the signal combination module 38. The signal combination module 38 combines the signals S₁, S₂, . . . , and S_(n). The signal combination module 38 outputs combination signals C₁, C₂, . . . , and C_(n), which are used, for example, as combining weights. The combination signals C₁, C₂, . . . , and C_(n) and the autocorrelated signals A₁, A₂, . . . , and A_(n) are sent to the weighted signal generator module 40. The weighted signal generator module 40 generates weighted autocorrelation signals W₁, W₂, . . . , and W_(n). The outputs of the weighted signal generator module 40 and the outputs of the synchronization module 22 are the weighted signals W₁, W₂, . . . , and W_(n).

Referring now to FIG. 3B, a synchronization module 22 incorporating signal strength modules 36-1, 36-2, . . . , and 36-n (referred to collectively as signal strength modules 36), a signal combination module 38, and a logical AND gates is shown. Filtered signals F₁, F₂, . . . , and F_(n) are passed through the signal strength modules 36. The signal strength modules 36 measure the strength of each signal and output strength signals S₁, S₂, . . . , and S_(n). The strength signals S₁, S₂, . . . , and S_(n) are sent to the signal combination module 38. The signal combination module 38 combines the signals S₁, S₂, . . . , and S_(n). The signal combination module 38 outputs combination signals C₁, C₂, . . . , and C_(n). The combination signals C₁, C₂, . . . , and C_(r), and the autocorrelated signals A₁, A₂, . . . , and A_(n) are sent to the logical AND gates. The logical AND gates output weighted autocorrelation signals W₁, W₂, . . . , and W_(n). The outputs of the synchronization module 22 are the weighted signals W₁, W₂, . . . , and W_(n).

Referring now to FIG. 4, a signal strength module 36 is shown. A filtered signal F_(x) is input to the signal strength module 36. The power of filtered signal F_(x) is determined and passed through an error adjustment feedback loop. The error adjustment feedback loop contains a D flip-flop to store a previous power value. The output of the error adjustment feedback loop (i.e. the output of the signal strength module 36) is a strength signal S_(x). In other words, the signal strength module 36 acts as a low pass filter for filtered signal F_(x).

Referring now to FIG. 5A, a signal combination module 38 incorporating a weighted combining module 42, a selection and equal gain control (EGC) module 44, and a control module 46 is shown. Strength signals S₁, S₂, . . . , and S_(n) are input to the weighted combining module 42 and the selection and EGC module 44. The weighted combining module 42 relates each of the strength signals S₁, S₂, . . . , and S_(n) to the maximum value of the strength signals S₁, S₂, . . . , and S_(n) to obtain weight signals with values ranging from 0 to 1, where 1 is the maximum weight. The selection and EGC module 44 disables receive antennas 26 (as shown in FIG. 2A) that are in deep fade, and equal gain combines the receive antennas 26 that remain enabled. The receive antennas 26 are in deep fade when the corresponding strength signals S₁, S₂, . . . , and S_(n) are below a threshold. Both the weighted combining module 42 and the selection and EGC module 44 output sets of combined signals to the control module 46. The control module 46 outputs combination signals C₁, C₂, . . . , and C_(n). The combination signals C₁, C₂, . . . , and C_(n) represent the passing of the signals output by either the weighted combining module 42 or the selection and EGC module 44, or a combination of the signals output by both the weighted combining module 42 and the selection and EGC module 44. The combination signals C₁, C₂, . . . , and C_(n), are then output by the signal combination module 38.

Referring now to FIG. 5B, a signal combination module 38 incorporating a weighted combining module 42 is shown. Strength signals S₁, S₂, . . . , and S_(n) are input to the weighted combining module 42. The weighted combining module 42 relates each of the strength signals S₁, S₂, . . . , and S_(n) to the maximum value of the strength signals S₁, S₂, . . . , and S_(n) to obtain weight signals with values ranging from 0 to 1, where 1 is the maximum weight. The weighted combining module 42 outputs the combination signals C₁, C₂, . . . , and C_(n), which are then output by the signal combination module 38.

Referring now to FIG. 5C, a signal combination module 38 incorporating a selection and EGC module 44 is shown. Strength signals S₁, S₂, . . . , and S_(n) are input to the selection and EGC module 44. The selection and EGC module 44 disables receive antennas 26 (as shown in FIG. 2A) that are in deep fade, and equal gain combines the receive antennas 26 that remain enabled. The receive antennas 26 are in deep fade when the corresponding strength signals S₁, S₂, . . . , and S_(n) are below a threshold. The selection and EGC module 44 outputs the combination signals C₁, C₂, . . . , and C_(n), which are then output by the signal combination module 38.

Referring now to FIG. 6A, an independent assessment module 24 as described in FIG. 2A includes Clear Channel Assessment (CCA) modules 52-1, 52-2, . . . , 52-n, and 52-C (referred to collectively as CCA modules 52). A combined weight signal W_(C) and the autocorrelated signals A₁, A₂, . . . , and A_(n) are input to the CCA modules 52, which determine the states of each channel and accordingly allow or defer data transmission. The CCA modules 52 output signals CCA₁, CCA₂, CCA_(n) and CCA_(C). The signals CCA₁, CCA₂, CCA_(n) and CCA_(C) are passed through a logical OR gate 54. The output of the logical OR gate 54 and the independent assessment module 24 is the effective signal CCA_(EFF).

Referring now to FIG. 6B, an independent assessment module as described in FIG. 2B includes only the CCA module 52-C. The CCA module 52-C receives the combined weight signal W_(C), determines the state of a channel, and allows or defers data transmission accordingly.

Referring now to FIG. 7, a clear channel assessment (CCA) module 52 is shown. The CCA module determines the state of a channel and accordingly allows or defers data transmission. When the received signal strength is below a specified threshold the channel is declared clear. For example, a media access control (MAC) device (not shown) may receive a channel status signal from the CCA module 52. When the received signal strength is above the threshold, data transmissions are deferred in accordance with the protocol rules.

Referring now to FIG. 8, a diagram illustrating the delay between automatic gain control (AGC) unlock and antenna selection is shown and is generally designated 60. When AGC unlock occurs, a set period of time must expire before antenna selection can occur. This is required to prevent the selection and EGC module 44 (as shown in FIG. 5) from incorrectly disabling one of the receive antennas 26-1, 26-2, . . . , and 26-n (as shown in FIG. 2A). For example, the EGC module 44 may include a timer (not shown) to determine when the set period of time has expired.

Referring now to FIG. 9, steps performed by the selection and EGC module 44 are shown in further detail and are generally designated 70. Control begins with step 72. In step 74, the selection and EGC module 44 determines whether automatic gain control (AGC) is unlocked. If false, control loops back to step 72. If true, control continues with step 76 where it is determined whether the required delay before antenna selection has expired. If false, control loops back to step 74. If true, control continues with step 78 where a strongest antenna is determined using a power meter. Control then proceeds to step 80 where the signal-to-noise ratio threshold (SNR_(TH)) is determined using the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). Control then proceeds to step 82 where the power threshold (P_(TH)) is determined using the signal-to-noise threshold (SNR_(TH)). Control then proceeds to step 84 where the number of effective antennas is set to the number of receive antennas used. Control then proceeds to step 86 where it is determined whether the maximum power is greater than the power of the current antenna. If false, control loops back to step 74. If true, control continues with step 88 where the current antenna is disabled and the number of effective antennas is reduced by one. Control then loops back to step 74.

Referring now to FIGS. 10A-10E, various exemplary implementations of the OFDM receiver system are shown.

Referring now to FIG. 10A, the OFDM receiver system can be implemented in a high definition television (HDTV) 420. For example, the OFDM receiver system could be implemented in a WLAN interface of the HDTV 422. The HDTV 420 receives HDTV input signals in either a wired or wireless format and generates HDTV output signals for a display 426. In some implementations, signal processing circuit and/or control circuit 422 and/or other circuits (not shown) of the HDTV 420 may process data, perform coding and/or encryption, perform calculations, format data and/or perform any other type of HDTV processing that may be required.

The HDTV 420 may communicate with mass data storage 427 that stores data in a nonvolatile manner such as optical and/or magnetic storage devices for example hard disk drives HDD and/or DVDs. The HDD may be a mini HDD that includes one or more platters having a diameter that is smaller than approximately 1.8″. The HDTV 420 may be connected to memory 428 such as RAM, ROM, low latency nonvolatile memory such as flash memory and/or other suitable electronic data storage. The HDTV 420 also may support connections with a WLAN via a WLAN network interface 429.

Referring now to FIG. 10B, the OFDM receiver system may implement and/or be implemented in a WLAN interface of a vehicle 430. In some implementations, the OFDM receiver system implement a powertrain control system 432 that receives inputs from one or more sensors such as temperature sensors, pressure sensors, rotational sensors, airflow sensors and/or any other suitable sensors and/or that generates one or more output control signals such as engine operating parameters, transmission operating parameters, and/or other control signals.

The OFDM receiver system may also be implemented in other control systems 440 of the vehicle 430. The control system 440 may likewise receive signals from input sensors 442 and/or output control signals to one or more output devices 444. In some implementations, the control system 440 may be part of an anti-lock braking system (ABS), a navigation system, a telematics system, a vehicle telematics system, a lane departure system, an adaptive cruise control system, a vehicle entertainment system such as a stereo, DVD, compact disc and the like. Still other implementations are contemplated.

The powertrain control system 432 may communicate with mass data storage 446 that stores data in a nonvolatile manner. The mass data storage 446 may include optical and/or magnetic storage devices for example hard disk drives HDD and/or DVDs. The HDD may be a mini HDD that includes one or more platters having a diameter that is smaller than approximately 1.8″.

The powertrain control system 432 may be connected to memory 447 such as RAM, ROM, low latency nonvolatile memory such as flash memory and/or other suitable electronic data storage. The powertrain control system 432 also may support connections with a WLAN via a WLAN network interface 448. The control system 440 may also include mass data storage, memory and/or a WLAN interface (all not shown).

Referring now to FIG. 10C, the OFDM receiver system can be implemented in a cellular phone 450 that may include a cellular antenna 451. For example, the OFDM receiver system could be implemented in a WLAN interface of the cellular phone 450. In some implementations, the cellular phone 450 includes a microphone 456, an audio output 458 such as a speaker and/or audio output jack, a display 460 and/or an input device 462 such as a keypad, pointing device, voice actuation and/or other input device. The signal processing and/or control circuits 452 and/or other circuits (not shown) in the cellular phone 450 may process data, perform coding and/or encryption, perform calculations, format data and/or perform other cellular phone functions.

The cellular phone 450 may communicate with mass data storage 464 that stores data in a nonvolatile manner such as optical and/or magnetic storage devices for example hard disk drives HDD and/or DVDs. The HDD may be a mini HDD that includes one or more platters having a diameter that is smaller than approximately 1.8″. The cellular phone 450 may be connected to memory 466 such as RAM, ROM, low latency nonvolatile memory such as flash memory and/or other suitable electronic data storage. The cellular phone 450 also may support connections with a WLAN via a WLAN network interface 468.

Referring now to FIG. 10D, the OFDM receiver system can be implemented in a set top box 480. For example, the OFDM receiver system could be implemented in a WLAN interface of the set top box 480. The set top box 480 receives signals from a source such as a broadband source and outputs standard and/or high definition audio/video signals suitable for a display 488 such as a television and/or monitor and/or other video and/or audio output devices. The signal processing and/or control circuits 484 and/or other circuits (not shown) of the set top box 480 may process data, perform coding and/or encryption, perform calculations, format data and/or perform any other set top box function.

The set top box 480 may communicate with mass data storage 490 that stores data in a nonvolatile manner. The mass data storage 490 may include optical and/or magnetic storage devices for example hard disk drives HDD and/or DVDs. The HDD may be a mini HDD that includes one or more platters having a diameter that is smaller than approximately 1.8″. The set top box 480 may be connected to memory 494 such as RAM, ROM, low latency nonvolatile memory such as flash memory and/or other suitable electronic data storage. The set top box 480 also may support connections with a WLAN via a WLAN network interface 496.

Referring now to FIG. 10E, the OFDM receiver system can be implemented in a media player 500. For example, the OFDM receiver system could be implemented in a WLAN interface of the media player 500. In some implementations, the media player 500 includes a display 507 and/or a user input 508 such as a keypad, touchpad and the like. In some implementations, the media player 500 may employ a graphical user interface (GUI) that typically employs menus, drop down menus, icons and/or a point-and-click interface via the display 507 and/or user input 508. The media player 500 further includes an audio output 509 such as a speaker and/or audio output jack. The signal processing and/or control circuits 504 and/or other circuits (not shown) of the media player 500 may process data, perform coding and/or encryption, perform calculations, format data and/or perform any other media player function.

The media player 500 may communicate with mass data storage 510 that stores data such as compressed audio and/or video content in a nonvolatile manner. In some implementations, the compressed audio files include files that are compliant with MP3 format or other suitable compressed audio and/or video formats. The mass data storage may include optical and/or magnetic storage devices for example hard disk drives HDD and/or DVDs. The HDD may be a mini HDD that includes one or more platters having a diameter that is smaller than approximately 1.8″. The media player 500 may be connected to memory 514 such as RAM, ROM, low latency nonvolatile memory such as flash memory and/or other suitable electronic data storage. The media player 500 also may support connections with a WLAN via a WLAN network interface 516. Still other implementations in addition to those described above are contemplated.

Those skilled in the art can now appreciate from the foregoing description that the broad teachings of the disclosure can be implemented in a variety of forms. Therefore, while this disclosure includes particular examples, the true scope of the disclosure should not be so limited since other modifications will become apparent to the skilled practitioner upon a study of the drawings, the specification and the following claims. 

1. A synchronization module for an orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing (OFDM) receiver system, the synchronization module comprising: a signal combination module that generates N combination signals that correspond to N received signals by performing at least one of weighted combining and selection and equal-gain-combining (EGC) on the N signals based on N filtered signals that correspond to the N received signals; and a weighted signal generator module that generates N weighted signals based on the N combination signals and N autocorrelated signals that correspond to the N received signals, wherein N is an integer greater than one.
 2. An OFDM receiver system comprising: the synchronization module of claim 1; and N receive antennas that receive the N received signals.
 3. The OFDM receiver system of claim 2 further comprising: N low pass filters that receive the N received signals and generate the N filtered signals.
 4. The OFDM receiver system of claim 3 further comprising: N autocorrelators that receive the N filtered signals and generate the N autocorrelated signals.
 5. The OFDM receiver system of claim 4 further comprising: a summing module that sums the N weighted signals to form a combined weighted signal.
 6. The OFDM receiver system of claim 5 further comprising: an independent assessment module that receives the combined weighted signal and generates an effective Clear Channel Assessment (CCA) signal based on at least the combined weighted signal.
 7. The OFDM receiver system of claim 6 further comprising: an Effective Clear Channel Assessment module (ECCA) that receives the effective CCA signal and executes an action based on an effective state of the OFDM receiver system.
 8. The OFDM receiver system of claim 3, wherein the synchronization module further includes: N signal strength modules that receive the N filtered signals and generate N strength signals.
 9. The OFDM receiver system of claim 8, wherein the signal combination module further includes: a weighted combining module that receives the N strength signals and generates a first set of N combined signals by weighing the N strength signals in relation to a maximum power value; a selection and equal gain combining (EGC) module that receives the N strength signals and generates a second set of N combined signals by disabling at least one of the N receive antennas in deep fade, and equal-gain-combining one or more of the N receive antennas that remain enabled; and a control module that receives the first set of N combined signals and the second set of N combined signals and generates the N combination signals using at least one of the first N combined signals and the second N combined signals.
 10. The OFDM receiver system of claim 6, wherein the independent assessment module further includes at least one Clear Channel Assessment (CCA) module that receives the combined weighted signal and generates the effective CCA signal.
 11. The OFDM receiver system of claim 2, wherein the OFDM receiver system is compliant with at least one of Institute of Electrical Engineers (IEEE) Standards 802.11a, 802.11g, and 802.11n.
 12. A synchronization module for an orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing (OFDM) receiver system, the synchronization module comprising: signal combination means for generating N combination signals that correspond to N received signals by performing at least one of weighted combining and selection and equal-gain-combining (EGC) on the N signals based on N filtered signals that correspond to the N received signals; and weighted signal generator means for generating N weighted signals based on the N combination signals and N autocorrelated signals that correspond to the N received signals, wherein N is an integer greater than one.
 13. An OFDM receiver system comprising: the synchronization module of claim 12; and N receive antennas that receive the N received signals.
 14. The OFDM receiver system of claim 13 further comprising: N low pass filter means for receiving the N received signals and generating the N filtered signals.
 15. The OFDM receiver system of claim 14 further comprising: N autocorrelator means for receiving the N filtered signals and generating the N autocorrelated signals.
 16. The OFDM receiver system of claim 15 further comprising: summing means for summing the N weighted signals to form a combined weighted signal.
 17. The OFDM receiver system of claim 16 further comprising: independent assessment means for receiving the combined weighted signal and generating an effective Clear Channel Assessment (CCA) signal based on at least the combined weighted signal.
 18. The OFDM receiver system of claim 17 further comprising: Effective Clear Channel Assessment (ECCA) means for receiving the effective CCA signal and executing an action based on an effective state of the OFDM receiver system.
 19. The OFDM receiver system of claim 14, wherein the synchronization module further includes: N signal strength means for receiving the N filtered signals and generating N strength signals.
 20. The OFDM receiver system of claim 19, wherein the signal combination means further includes: weighted combining means for receiving the N strength signals and generating a first set of N combined signals by weighing the N strength signals in relation to a maximum power value; selection and equal gain combining (EGC) means for receiving the N strength signals and generating a second set of N combined signals by disabling at least one of the N receive antennas in deep fade, and equal-gain-combining one or more of the N receive antennas that remain enabled; and control means for receiving the first set of N combined signals and the second set of N combined signals and generating the N combination signals using at least one of the first N combined signals and the second N combined signals.
 21. The OFDM receiver system of claim 17, wherein the independent assessment means further includes at least one Clear Channel Assessment (CCA) means for receiving the combined weighted signal and generating the effective CCA signal.
 22. The OFDM receiver system of claim 13, wherein the OFDM receiver system is compliant with at least one of Institute of Electrical Engineers (IEEE) Standards 802.11a, 802.11g, and 802.11n.
 23. A synchronization method for an orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing (OFDM) receiver system, the synchronization method comprising: generating N combination signals that correspond to N received signals by performing at least one of weighted combining and selection and equal-gain-combining (EGC) on the N signals based on N filtered signals that correspond to the N received signals; and generating N weighted signals based on the N combination signals based on N autocorrelated signals that correspond to the N received signals, wherein N is an integer greater than one.
 24. The synchronization method of claim 23 further comprising receiving the N received signals at N receive antennas.
 25. The synchronization method of claim 24 further comprising: receiving the N received signals at N low pass filters; and generating the N filtered signals.
 26. The synchronization method of claim 25 further comprising: receiving the N filtered signals at N autocorrelators; and generating the N autocorrelated signals.
 27. The synchronization method of claim 26 further comprising summing the N weighted signals to form a combined weighted signal.
 28. The synchronization method of claim 27 further comprising: receiving the combined weighted signal; and generating an effective Clear Channel Assessment (CCA) signal based on at least the combined weighted signal.
 29. The synchronization method of claim 28 further comprising: receiving the effective CCA signal at an Effective Clear Channel Assessment module (ECCA).
 30. The synchronization method of claim 25 further comprising generating N strength signals based on the N filtered signals.
 31. The synchronization method of claim 30 further comprising: receiving the N strength signals; generating a first set of N combined signals by weighing the N strength signals in relation to a maximum power value; generating a second set of N combined signals by disabling at least one of the N receive antennas in deep fade, and equal-gain-combining one or more of the N receive antennas that remain enabled; receiving the first set of N combined signals and the second set of N combined signals; and generating the N combination signals using at least one of the first set of N combined signals and the second set of N combined signals.
 32. The synchronization method of claim 28 further comprising: receiving the combined weighted signal at a Clear Channel Assessment (CCA) module; and generating the effective CCA signal at the CCA module.
 33. A computer program stored on a computer-readable medium for use by a processor for operating an orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing (OFDM) receiver system, the computer program comprising instructions for: generating N combination signals that correspond to N received signals by performing at least one of weighted combining and selection and equal-gain-combining (EGC) on the N signals based on N filtered signals that correspond to the N received signals; and generating N weighted signals based on the N combination signals based on N autocorrelated signals that correspond to the N received signals, wherein N is an integer greater than one.
 34. The computer program of claim 33 further comprising instructions for generating the N filtered signals.
 35. The computer program of claim 34 further comprising instructions for generating the N autocorrelated signals.
 36. The computer program of claim 35 further comprising instructions for summing the N weighted signals to form a combined weighted signal.
 37. The computer program of claim 36 further comprising instructions for: receiving the combined weighted signal; and generating an effective Clear Channel Assessment (CCA) signal based on at least the combined weighted signal.
 38. The computer program of claim 37 further comprising instructions for: receiving the effective CCA signal at an Effective Clear Channel Assessment module (ECCA).
 39. The computer program of claim 34 further comprising instructions for generating N strength signals based on the N filtered signals.
 40. The computer program of claim 39 further comprising instructions for: receiving the N strength signals; generating a first set of N combined signals by weighing the N strength signals in relation to a maximum power value; generating a second set of N combined signals; receiving the first set of N combined signals and the second set of N combined signals; and generating the N combination signals using at least one of the first set of N combined signals and the second set of N combined signals.
 41. The computer program of claim 37 further comprising instructions for: receiving the combined weighted signal at a Clear Channel Assessment (CCA) module; and generating the effective CCA signal at the CCA module. 